IMO, the best way to cut stainless braid hoses:



Once you're done, wash out the dust etc. in your parts-washer or w/ brake-clean (regardless of what you cut it with...saw...axe...you should rinse it out afterwards).

Tom's advice on electrical tape is A+. I also "dress" the cut stainless braid just a bit with a grinding wheel so that it's got a bit of a bevel...makes for an easier "push" into the back of the fitting.

I also have end fittings with air line connectors on them, so I can pressure test each line before installation. Just use a little soapy water sprayed on the connectors and look for bubbles. Never had a leaker...but I'm sorta anal about oil & fuel lines.